Stage 2 spread anxiety

Hi Arightbumdeal

I'm probably not the best person to provide reassurance as I'm the biggest worry wart in the world, but wanted to say that what you are going through is totally normal! 

I think we lose trust in our bodies and it's very hard not to think of every twinge, ache and pain as something bad happening.  I finished treatment 2 years ago and for a while I couldnt even get a headache without fearing the worst. Im fact, I got a sty in my eye once and convinced myself it was bad!! I'm getting there though and it's getting easier and it will for you !!!

You obviously have to get any concerns checked out, but  chances are everything is absolutely fine!! 

Good luck with the scan.

Deb x 

Hi Arightbumdeal  as Debh1 has said, it is totally normal to think like this. I was stage 2 too and received my 2 year all clear last month. Anxiety heightens with every approaching check up and scan, every new ache or pain has me rushing to Dr Google. I hightailed it to my GP in sheer panic earlier this year with a lump in my mouth that I had convinced myself was mouth cancer. It wasn't. In a sense it is good to be vigilant about new symptoms but not over vigilant, it's difficult sometimes to know where to draw the line. The psychological toll of a cancer diagnosis can sometimes be worse than any physical side effects. I was referred to an Oncological psychologist for sessions for strategies to deal with reducing anxiety and coping with the fear of a return of the Big C which really helped. To ease your worries I would mention this ache to your Oncologist who will probably be able to put your mind a rest.  It looks like you've healed very well which is good to hear ! Bev x

Hi Arightbumdeal, 

You've had a couple of great responses there from both Deb & Bev both of which I totally agree with & just know, although it doesn’t help much, the way you’re feeling is completely normal following a cancer diagnosis, we completely lose trust in our health & that’s only to be expected. As Bev has said if you find you’re really struggling maybe request a referral to cancer specific counsellor for some help with coping strategies. 

Nicola 

Thank you everyone. I am really struggling. I’ve messed up with my antidepressants because they are effecting my sleep. Went swimming today and a pain I had underneath my ribs is worse after swimming. In my head this means a massive liver tumour. Surely I can’t have gone from stage 2 to a liver tumour in just 8 weeks? I’m so paranoid and worried. I know I should just call my oncologist - but I’m scared. I’m scared that they got something wrong. 

Hi Arightbumdeal  please call your Oncologist tomorrow, I do think he/she will be able to put your mind at ease. In my view, it would be unlikely that the tumour would metastasize from a Stage 2 to the liver to the point where you are having these pains within this short a space of time. I'm wondering if the pain could be muscular seeing as it was exacerbated by activity when you went swimming. Anxiety can also have a real effect on our physical body and may be heightening your perception of pain in this area.  I would also urge you to call your GP. There are many different antidepressants and you could perhaps consider changing to one that doesn't affect your sleep. Please let us know how you get on. Bev x

I had the exact same thing....pains and aching, sometimes shooting in my abdomen, ovaries, ribs etc. It finally subsided after months and i realized it was from the radiation. You don't realize how strong that is!! Now a year later

I'm fine. I think you will be too. Lynn

Hi Arightbumdeal 

Just to let you know I’ve bee thinking about you, hope you managed to get some reassurance from your Dr’s & also your medication sorted. 

Nicola

Thank you so much Nikki! I had a stern word with myself and I’m feeling much better. Thank you so much for reaching out, it means the world to me xxx

I’m pleased you’re feeling a bit better Arightbumdeal, anxiety gets the better of us all sometimes, we’re always here for you. 

Nicola 

Hello Arightbumdeal:

I know what you are saying, I was Stage 2 as well.  Every time I had any pain in that general area I would become concerned.  It has been almost 9 years since I had the cancer, and the only thing that doesn't want to leave is the bowel situation.  I tell myself I am here, and I kicked Cancers butt, so I can handle anything.  I agree with Deb, get the tests.  You are probably on your way to a wonderful life.